Nowadays, your child will come across different cultures a lot more than you would have done growing up. The classrooms are a mix of kids from all over the world and it is important your little one learns all about different cultures to make them more accepting as adults.
Movies
Movies are a great way to introduce your child to new cultures and different ways of life. Obviously, the age of your child will influence which film you watch but movies like Pocahontas and Ferngully: The Last Rainforest teaches your son or daughter about the importance of accepting and understanding different cultures.
Books
Just like movies, books can provide a perfect outlet for understanding different cultures. However, unlike films, you can talk about the book as you go along and let your little one ask questions on what’s happening. The library is a great resource for picking up books on different cultures and countries – you can go a journey across the world without even leaving the house.
Exchange students
If possible, organise with the school to have exchange students come over or have a student stay in your home while they are studying. This is the perfect opportunity for your little one to get to know someone from a different culture or background and to see that not everyone is the same.
New foods
Food is a great way to get your child to understand different religions, cultures and lifestyles. Encourage your child to help with the preparation and talk about how other culture prepare their food and how certain foods are associated with certain religions etc. Why not have a theme night once a week whereby you cook authentic food, listen to the country’s music, and wear their style of dress. It will create lasting memories for your child as well as help them to see how other people live.
Go off the tourist track
When going on holidays, try to stay away from the typical tourist locations as your child won’t be able to get a feel of how the natives actually live. Stay in rural areas, on farms, in the suburbs or along the coast to really get an understanding of life over there.
